Diseases of the Appendix

Jordan, Taylor R.; Webb, Emily M.

doi:10.1007/978-3-642-13327-5_161

Cited by 1 publication

(1 citation statement)

References 82 publications

Supporting

Mentioning

Contrasting

Order By: Relevance

“…However, throughout life, it can be the site of various pathologies, of which only acute appendicitis has specific symptoms (abdominal pain, descending to the lower right quadrant, nausea, vomiting, and anorexia), and the rest of the pathologies have similar symptoms or lack specific symptoms [2,3]. Pathologies of the appendix are categorized into inflammatory pathologies (acute appendicitis), pathologies related to congenital anomalies of the appendix and other related diseases, and tumors of the appendix [4,5].…”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

The Vermiform Appendix and Its Pathologies

Constantin,

Petrescu,

Mătanie

et al. 2023

Cancers

View full text Add to dashboard Cite

The vermiform appendix is a muscular cylindrical structure originating near the junction of the cecum and ileum, averaging 9 cm (5–35 cm) in size. As the most mobile viscera, it can adopt several positions, the most common being the retrocecal position. Perceived as an atavistic organ lacking physiological relevance, the vermiform appendix appears to be involved in immune function, serving in the maturation of B lymphocytes and the production of immunoglobulin A, in endocrine function, excreting amines and hormones in the 2–3 mL of mucus secreted daily, and in digestive function, by storing beneficial bacteria from where they can recolonize the colon. With a lumen of about 6 mm, the vermiform appendix has a reduced storage capacity, so any blockage of the appendix with fecoliths (fecaliths), seeds derailed from the colon, or enlarged lymph nodes prevents drainage and intraluminal accumulation of secreted mucus. Unable to relax, the appendix wall severely limits its intraluminal volume, so mucus accumulation leads to inflammation of the appendix, known generically as appendicitis. In addition, the vermiform appendix may be the site of the development of neoplastic processes, which may or may not involve mucus production, some of which can significantly affect the standard of living and ultimately lead to death. In general, mucinous tumors may have a better prognosis than non-mucinous tumors. This review takes a comprehensive path, starting by describing the anatomy and embryology of the vermiform appendix and further detailing its inflammatory pathologies, pathologies related to congenital anomalies, and appendix tumors, thus creating an up-to-date framework for better understanding, diagnosis, and treatment of these health problems.

show abstract